Tree and Shrub Fertilization
Deep Root Fertilization
| Most people think about fertilizing their plants, but not their trees or shrubs. The thought that trees and shrubs grow in the forest without fertilizer is not quite correct. In forests or wooded areas, leaves fall and as they decay, they provide the needed nutrients for trees and shrubs; and because this process has been happening for years in nature, the soil is rich with nutrients and not compacted. In most urban settings, leaves and grass clippings are removed from the property, thus removing potential nutrients. Also, trees are often planted in “red clay” to begin with, which is very hard and compacted.Fertilizing trees and shrubs attempts to regain the lost natural cycle. With topical fertilizer applications much of the fertilizer is absorbed by grass and other plants, significantly reducing the amount that reaches the roots of the trees. Deep Root Fertilization involves injecting a liquid fertilizer into the root zone of the tree or shrub, providing both fertilization and aeration. The materials are injected into the root zone under pressure.Soil injection sites are placed about 2 or 3 feet apart in a grid pattern throughout the canopy. With a special motorized, high pressure pump, the liquid fertilizer is forced into the ground. A special probe is inserted into the ground and liquid fertilizer is injected into the soil. The fertilizer is spread throughout the top inches of the soil, where most of the nutrient-absorbing roots are located.Deep root fertilization provides a way for trees and shrubs to absorb and distribute these nutrients throughout the plant systemically, meaning that the nutrients are absorbed through the roots and distributed throughout the whole tree or shrub from the inside, versus a topical application. This ensures nutrients go throughout the whole tree.
The best time to fertilize is before there is any noticeable decline in trees and shrubs. Healthy plants benefit from fertilization in the fall and even into dormancy. Seascape Tree and Shrub Care offers a variety of fertilization services delivered by skilled staff who will help identify and suggest services according to your specific needs. |